President Mohamed Nasheed Friday called for improvements in energy efficiency and investments in renewable energy, in order to reduce electricity bills and reduce the Maldives’ dependence on imported oil.

Addressing “Eco-Symposium” held at Soneva Fushi resort in Baa atoll to explore how the travel and tourism industry can reduce its carbon emissions while saving money on electricity costs, President Nasheed said the government wants to implement new building regulations to ensure that new buildings are energy efficient.

The president also noted the government’s desire to shift to renewable energies such as solar power.

“We have to get away from thinking that development has to cause carbon dioxide emissions,” he said.

“In the Maldives, we want to pursue a low carbon development strategy… so we can develop, create a better life for people and also take care of this planet.”

The Maldives has one of the world’s highest electricity prices and, according to a 2007 United Nations report, is the most oil-vulnerable country in Asia.

President Mohamed Nasheed Friday called for improvements in energy efficiency and investments in renewable energy in order to reduce electricity bills and reduce the Maldives’ dependence on imported oil